YouSaid · the spoken record

Kjell Magne Bondevik

lines on the record: 29
first: 1999-09-24
most recent: 2002-09-24
sittings or episodes: 2
sources: un-general-debate

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“We must use the full spectrum of means and measures to secure democracy and opportunity for every person on this planet. Only then can we hope to create a world in which there will be no more horrendous acts of violence, extreme aggression and terrorism. The multilateral system of cooperation can only be as strong and assertive as Governments want it to be. We have a common responsibility to make it strong. We cannot think collectively and then act alone. Nor can we think in isolation and expect to act effectively together. That is why we need a strong United Nations.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“Our commitment to human security means that we must effectively apply international humanitarian law. The entry into force of the Statute of the International Criminal Court is unprecedented. The Court represents a decisive step towards the end of impunity for the most serious crimes against humanity. We need an independent, effective and credible Court. We must work together to promote wide adherence to the Rome Statute. The goal must be a universally accepted International Criminal Court, so that no perpetrator of mass killings or other crimes against humanity and can feel safe. Our resolve to promote social development, economic growth, democracy and human rights is the strongest means we have at our disposal in the fight against poverty and injustice, as well as in the long- term struggle to eradicate terrorism.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, openness and democracy are values and principles we share. However, common values and principles are of little value if they do not lead to concrete results to the benefit of the individual. Many of the problems we are facing are directly related to the fact that the very human rights and values we have all committed ourselves to are not being lived up to. This we see in Burma, and in other countries as well. As leaders, we have a responsibility to protect our citizens. We must focus on human security and protection from violence. Civilians are targeted or used as instruments of intimidation and terror. Women and children are increasingly vulnerable. Relief workers and others who volunteer to help people in need are subject to deliberate attacks and acts of violence.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“The search for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa must also focus on resolving the conflicts in Somalia and Sudan. Over the years, Norway has been actively involved as a facilitator in the settlement process of a number of armed conflicts. In Sri Lanka, we have witnessed significant progress over the past few months. A ceasefire agreement between the Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam came into force at the end of February. The agreement has laid the foundation for direct political negotiations, which will begin in Thailand next week. Norway is strongly committed to the protection and promotion of human rights. Human rights are the platform for enabling people to choose and to develop their full potential.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“Political and diplomatic efforts to achieve these goals have not yet been exhausted. Iraq must immediately comply with United Nations demands. The responsibility for non-compliance lies with Iraq alone. Further action by the international community must be rooted in the United Nations. The international community must stay fully engaged in resolving the conflicts that still prevail in many parts of Africa. Parties to armed conflicts must continue to show political will and ensure that diplomatic progress is translated into real results on the ground, including in the Great Lakes region. Too many have suffered for too long from armed conflict. In the peace process between Ethiopia and Eritrea, we have seen that progress is possible when the parties and the United Nations work closely together.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“As the country holding the chairmanship of the Afghan Support Group, we have focused on the need for both humanitarian assistance and long-term reconstruction aid. A sustained international presence is essential. Winter is approaching, and as many as 6 million people are threatened with famine. We must also ensure the protection of human rights, in particular the rights of girls and women. Iraq must address the unresolved disarmament issues in accordance with Security Council resolutions. This means immediate and unconditional cooperation with United Nations weapons inspectors. It is up to the Iraqi leadership to allay international fears and to prove that Iraq does not possess weapons of mass destruction. It is up to Saddam Hussein to step out of isolation and bring Iraq back into the world community.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“Only a political process aiming at an independent Palestinian State and security for Israel can lead to peace. As the country holding the chairmanship of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, Norway is working with other donors to help rebuild economic and social infrastructure, while ensuring reforms in the Palestinian areas through our work in the established Task Force on Palestinian Reform. We must continue our assistance in the years to come in the troubled and war-torn country of Afghanistan. We condemn the recent attacks against the lawfully appointed leaders of Afghanistan. The fight against the remaining groups of terrorists must continue. I pledge Norway's continued support to 22 Afghanistan.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“Last but not least, making it happen requires financial resources. I urge the leaders of industrialized countries to make speedy progress towards the 0.7 per cent target for official development assistance. Norway intends to increase development assistance to 1 per cent of its gross domestic product by 2005. The cycle of violence in the Middle East must be broken. We must all help to bring the conflict out of its deadlock. Israel has a legitimate right to self-defence, but a human disaster is unfolding before our eyes in the Palestinian areas. I urge the Palestinians to deal effectively with the terror. The terrorist attacks must end. I urge the Government of Israel to recommit itself to the political process while halting military operations and withdrawing its forces.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“The Summit in Johannesburg also demonstrated that promoting development and protecting the environment must go hand in hand. Now it is up to us to make it all happen. Making it happen requires that we commit to precise and ambitious aims within the most pressing areas of concern. We tried to do so in Johannesburg, especially in the areas of water, energy, health, agriculture and biodiversity. Making it happen requires investment in people: education, respect for human rights, the empowerment of women, and the empowerment of the poor. We need more equitable sharing of wealth within and among nations. Making it happen requires courageous and enlightened leadership. Good governance is indispensable for sustainable development. Making it happen requires strong international institutions, both to monitor and to act on behalf of us all.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“I call on all Member States to fight extremism and fanaticism, to protect and promote human rights, to resolve conflicts and to eradicate poverty. That is why to invest in development is to invest in peace. The Millennium Declaration set out the precise objectives to which we all are committed. We cannot afford to fail. Development must be built on a global partnership, in which all partners have clear responsibilities. At the World Summit on Sustainable Development, held in Johannesburg a week ago, we reaffirmed our commitment to the Rio principles and agreements, to the Millennium Goals, to Doha and to Monterrey. Together these agreements and declarations have given us a platform for renewed efforts towards our common goal of sustainable development.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“We must deny the terrorists access to weapons of mass destruction. We must continue to fight terrorism with all necessary means political, diplomatic, legal, financial and military. We must ensure that we are fighting terrorism on our own terms, upholding the values, the rights and the freedoms that the terrorists so despise. Secondly, we must strengthen our common efforts to maintain peace and security. A multilateral approach to global challenges requires relevant and effective institutions. Effective multilateralism calls for a strong United Nations and effective regional organizations. Norway stands fully behind efforts to strengthen the United Nations. Thirdly, we must focus on root causes.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“Yesterday we stood united in remembrance of all those who lost their lives a year ago. The terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 were an attack on us all. We, the States Members of the United Nations made this clear a year ago in this Hall. Today we stand united in unwavering determination in the struggle against international terrorism and in the fight for the values, ideals and human rights that this great Organization is founded upon. To succeed in our fight against terrorism, we must meet three crucial priorities. First of all, as terrorism is a global threat, our response must be global and comprehensive. To succeed, the global coalition to combat international terrorism must be maintained and further strengthened. We must continue our common efforts to prevent and eradicate terrorism, and to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
2002-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 57 (2002)
“For the next century, we must, first, build a stronger United Nations in the fields of global security and economic and social progress; secondly, use the United Nations as the primary instrument for peace and development, democracy and human rights; and thirdly, tackle poverty and conflict prevention as the main challenges at the top of our agenda. It is up to us, the Member States, to make this possible. Together, we must make it happen.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“The Middle East peace process is at a critical juncture. The vision that the parties had in 1993, when the Oslo Accords were signed, is still valid. The fact that Israel and the Palestinians have now embarked on final status talks is a very positive sign. Strong support for the peace process must remain a high priority for the international community. We must work together with the parties to achieve a just, lasting and comprehensive peace that will guarantee prosperity and security for all involved. The world needs an effective multilateral machinery to cope with common challenges.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“We will set aside $3 million for the Secretariat to use for this purpose. The situation in Africa gives rise to concern. Armed conflicts are hampering development in many countries. AIDS is also taking a heavy toll. There are positive signs too: we are witnessing the growth of democracy, transfers to civilian rule, free elections and economic and political reforms in many African countries. But poverty remains a major challenge. Norway remains firmly committed to peace and development in Africa. We will work with our African partners for conflict management and development cooperation. We will work with the United Nations, the Organization of African Unity, subregional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community, the Economic Community of West African States, and others, to achieve our common aims.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“This calls for closer cooperation and the involvement of the whole United Nations family as well as the Bretton Woods institutions. The Secretary-General’s reports on Africa (A/52/871- S/1998/318 and A/54/133-E/1999/79) clearly demonstrate that poverty, underdevelopment and violent conflicts are closely linked: we cannot address one without addressing the others. The Secretary-General has pointed to the need for a comprehensive approach and better coordination of conflict prevention and post-conflict peace-building in the United Nations system. The Secretariat has already embarked on the process of implementation and follow-up. Norway fully supports the Secretary-General’s initiative and is ready to provide practical and financial support for this important endeavour.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“Increasingly, man’s pressure on the environment seems to be a contributing factor to natural disasters, which often cause extensive destruction in developing countries. We must step up our efforts to assist developing nations so that they become less vulnerable. In this regard, Norway attaches great importance to the special session of the General Assembly, to be convened next week, on the Barbados Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States. Conflict prevention, humanitarian aid and development efforts must go hand in hand. We must deal with the underlying causes of poverty and need, not just the symptoms. Political and economic reform should run in parallel with humanitarian aid. We must close the gap between relief and long-term development.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“We must vigorously pursue nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. The principles and objectives set out under the process established by the Treaty on the Non- Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) must be honoured. The early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and ratification of the Treaty on Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms (START II) are crucial priorities. So are START III negotiations to lower nuclear arsenals, and so is a cut-off treaty. These are all crucial elements in a global agenda for sustainable human development. 18 When natural disasters strike, the poor are the most vulnerable. The recent tragedies in Turkey and Greece affected us deeply.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“At the forthcoming Red Cross Conference in Geneva, we must generate the momentum needed to secure the protection aspects of international humanitarian law. The early entry into force of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court will be a vital contribution to the rule of law. We must focus on human security, taking individuals and their communities as our point of departure. Combating poverty is crucial to human security. The proliferation of anti-personnel mines and small arms and the use of child soldiers pose a threat to human security. They inflict deep wounds on society and individuals. Recently, in Russia, we have seen how terrorism strikes innocent people. We strongly condemn such terrorist acts, for which there can be no excuse. International efforts to deal with these serious issues must be intensified.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“This summer, at the Sarajevo Summit, we pledged to make the Stability Pact a key element of our efforts to ensure that democracy, peace and prosperity become firmly rooted all over south- eastern Europe. At the same time, our efforts to build peace in the Balkans must not be made at the expense of the poorest people elsewhere in the world. They should not pay the bill. The United Nations and its agencies play a central role in providing emergency aid to victims of war everywhere. Humanitarian assistance should be complemented by efforts to promote reconciliation, democratic development and respect for human rights. Compliance with international instruments is needed to protect civilians in armed conflicts. We welcome the Secretary-General’s report and the Security Council resolution adopted last week.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“We need constructive interaction between all international, governmental and non-governmental organizations involved in peacekeeping and post-conflict work in Europe and elsewhere. Kosovo is a tragic example of the complex conflicts that we have seen in recent years. Building lasting peace there will require the concerted efforts of all actors involved: the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the OSCE, the European Union and others. Our immediate concern is to secure a safe environment for all the people of Kosovo through a credible international presence. We must promote integration between all the peoples and nations of south-eastern Europe. We must include everyone and isolate no one.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“We must act in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law. We must put the United Nations first. This means enhancing the capacity of the United Nations for conflict prevention, crisis management and long-term development. All Members must meet their financial obligations to our world Organization and its peace operations. Creating common security is not cost- free. In particular, it is the duty of the most powerful members of the United Nations to set an example for others. The United Nations must develop further its cooperation with regional organizations. As Chairman- in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Norway has been working to build closer relations with the United Nations system.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“During the 1990s, the activities of the United Nations have been more extensive than ever before in the conduct of preventive diplomacy, in the deployment of peacekeeping forces and in the provision of humanitarian aid to the victims of war. But at the same time, there are critics who claim that the United Nations has failed. Of course, many things could have been done better, but we must not forget the many successes and we must not forget that it is we, the Member States, who are responsible for giving the United Nations the mandates to act and the money and the means to succeed. Let us not make the United Nations a scapegoat for our own shortcomings. Instead, we must make sure that the Security Council can fulfil its primary function in international peace and security.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“We also support the momentum created by the Group of Seven States to give highly indebted poor countries substantial debt relief. Fourthly, the entry of developing countries into the global market must be facilitated, not obstructed. This must be focused on during the new round of multilateral trade negotiations in the World Trade Organization. In recent years, we have seen an increase in civil wars, often with an additional element of foreign involvement. The root causes can often be linked to ethnic tension, as well as to inequity in the distribution of 17 resources - economic, social, natural and political.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“The following steps would have a major impact. First, we need to increase the transfer of official development assistance from the North to the South. Norway has been well above the United Nations target for two decades. We intend to increase our development assistance further, up to 1 per cent of gross domestic product. Secondly, we need partnerships that enable national Governments to lead the way and determine their own priorities. The private sector and business interests must be brought into the development process, as the Secretary-General has underlined. Thirdly, development assistance and debt relief must go hand in hand. Creditor nations must now give the poorest members of the world community a new start. Norway’s national debt-relief strategy is particularly designed for this purpose.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“And the United Nations must be the primary instrument. There is no alternative. Let us build a global partnership aimed at eradicating poverty. Let us start by mobilizing the political will and the financial resources needed to meet the target of cutting global poverty in half by the year 2015. It is a matter of political will; it can be done now. National Governments have the primary responsibility for sustainable development and for meeting social needs. They must promote and protect the rule of law, human rights and democracy. They must fight corruption and pursue sound economic policies. There is no doubt that development assistance is most effective in countries where government is based on the principles of good governance. The international community must also do more to create economic opportunities for the developing world.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“Combatting poverty, preventing conflicts, promoting human rights: these are the main challenges at the top of our common global agenda for the next century. We must ensure that globalization benefits all, not just the few, and we must protect the environment. To achieve this, we need to strengthen the multilateral system. We must support the United Nations and its work for global peace, security and sustainable development. We must put the United Nations first. Together we possess the knowledge and the resources needed to eradicate poverty. But still, 1.3 billion people live in extreme poverty. This is unacceptable, morally and politically. It is an injustice and an obstacle to economic and democratic progress. For all Member States, in the North and in the South alike, changing this situation must be our priority.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“In preparing for the Millennium Assembly, let us together address global challenges in a new spirit, with a new sense of purpose. I would like to congratulate you, Sir, upon your election to the presidency of the General Assembly. Norway looks forward to working with you. I also warmly welcome the three new Members of the United Nations, the Republic of Kiribati, the Republic of Nauru and the Kingdom of Tonga. At the end of this century, globalization presents us with political and moral dilemmas. There has been remarkable progress in technological innovation and in economic and democratic development. But at the same time, while the rich are getting richer, the poor are getting poorer. Poverty and pollution, violent conflict and violations of human rights continue to haunt far too many people around the world.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)
“The tragedy in East Timor shows us again that when war and violence erupt the world community turns to the United Nations for the resolution of conflicts and the preservation of peace. We welcome the Security Council’s action to endorse the multinational force that is now moving in to bring security and aid to the people of East Timor. Norway will contribute with personnel and financing. We look to the United Nations for hope and solutions, and for the protection of human dignity and shared values in a world of injustice and conflict. That is why the United Nations is indispensable. And that is why we, the Member States, must make use of the United Nations for peace and development, whether it be in East Timor, in Kosovo or in the Congo.”
1999-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 54 (1999)